“Riverina residents now have the opportunity to write submissions as part of the Senate Select Committee on Agricultural and Related Industries. The committee is initially going to inquire into and report on the pricing and supply arrangements in the Australian and global fertiliser markets,” Mrs Hull said.

Larry Walsh of Walsh Transport said this will affect his business as people will choose not to use the fertiliser or cut down on costs.

“Fertiliser currently sits at around $1250/tonne plus GST and this price is only valid in seven-day blocks.

“The cost of fertiliser has doubled but put into perspective, grain prices have nearly tripled in relative time periods. But that’s beside the point, it is still a lot of money,” Mr Walsh said.

NSW Department of Primary Industries district agronomist Mary-Anne Lattimore noted that: “Fertiliser and fuel prices have risen but we are in the fortunate position that grain prices have also risen this year, so things aren’t as bad as they might be if commodity prices had remained the same,” Mrs Lattimore said.

“The inquiry will look at the implications for Australian farmers of world chemical and fertiliser supply and pricing arrangements, monopolistic and cartel behaviour, and related matters.

Mrs Hull said submissions should be lodged at agriculture.sen @aph.gov.au or with the Committee Secretary, Senate Select Committee on Agricultural and Related Industries, Department of the Senate, PO Box 6100, Parliament House, Canberra ACT 2600 by Thursday, April 3.

Mrs Hull said if you wish to make a confidential submission please contact the committee secretary on 6277 3510 and further information.

The committee is expected to report to the Senate on or before June 16, 2008.